Appliances

Having a built-in coffee machine adds a coffee shop feel to your home and morning routine. With a single touch, espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes can be served in seconds. They also meld with your kitchen design. For remodels and design-focused upgrades, a built-in espresso maker is a stylish and handy addition. As with everything, there are some trade-offs to consider. These systems have a higher initial cost, need a professional to install them, and require regular maintenance to keep them in their best condition. However, for most Los Angeles homeowners, the daily convenience of a coffee system 2025 makes it a worthwhile investment. To determine whether it’s the right fit for you or not, Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center offers an in-person exploration for built-in coffee systems, and for the rest of our readers, this guide has everything you need to know about coffee systems such as cabinet fit, water options, grinders, milk systems, cleaning, smart features, and brand comparisons so you can make the decision yourself, are built-in coffee machines worth it or not. Measure Your Cabinet Cutout Prior to selecting your model, knowing the built-in coffee dimensions will make installation seamless. Most systems are designed to fit a 24-inch coffee system cutout, which allows for pairing with wall ovens or warming drawers for a neat stacked appearance. Some brands do provide slightly larger systems, so verifying the measurements remains important. While determining the cabinet cutout for the coffee machine, do not solely work with the width. You need

Picking the best dishwasher for your home can be simple. Focus on three main things: the dishwasher size that suits your household, the features you’ll actually use, and how quietly it operates. This dishwasher buying guide helps you find the perfect unit without sifting through endless specs that sound the same. These choices really matter because the right dishwasher can save you time, use less water, and make the mess of cleanup way easier. Whether you want flexible racks, smart controls, or simply want sparkling dishes every time, knowing how to choose a dishwasher turns the purchase into a smart long-term investment. If you are looking for the best dishwasher of 2025, start to explore the Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center’s dishwasher collection or visit our showroom to see top dishwasher brands, try out features, and get personalized advice for your kitchen. Measure Your Space Before buying a new dishwasher, it’s a must to measure your kitchen space so your new appliance slides in with no hassle. The standard dishwasher size is about 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 35 inches tall, but smaller kitchens have more choices. An 18-inch-wide compact model fits well in small kitchens or apartments, and pull-out drawer styles are perfect when every inch counts. If a built-in does not work, a portable dishwasher on wheels is a handy option. Use this checklist when you measure for a new dishwasher space to ensure a smooth installation: Width: Measure cabinet to cabinet at the top and bottom.

Appliances are no longer limited to fulfilling their core functions. They contribute significantly to the style of the kitchen. Because colors and finishes set the mood and tie the design together, they are also a major contributor towards the kitchen's and home's resale value. There is a notable shift in 2025 appliance trends, and stainless steel finishes are being replaced with more creative and design-conscious choices. Matte finishes, like black, white glass, and brushed brass, are gaining popularity among homeowners seeking to enhance their kitchens. This kitchen appliance color guide will walk you through how to match your appliances with modern, farmhouse, or any style in between. By following these appliance finish trends, you will be able to make informed decisions regarding an ageless yet fashionable look. Classic Stainless Steel (Still a Top Contender) There are certain trends that never go out of style, and one of them is stainless steel appliances. They are a reliable choice for most homeowners. With a clean and neutral look, stainless steel blends with any design. This flexibility makes stainless ideal for both new builds and remodels, especially if you want a style that will stand the test of time. Stainless steel appliances are easy to clean because they are resistant to stains and scratches. Furthermore, you can get appliances made of stainless steel from different categories, including a refrigerator or a dishwasher. Premium brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Miele still retain stainless steel in their collections, which showcases its enduring charm in timeless kitchen

In Southern California, summer means spending time outside, having relaxed evenings, and entertaining with family and friends. These gatherings, whether they are family barbecues or poolside parties, require ice to keep everyone cool and hydrated. With a countertop ice maker, you can have ice on hand whenever you need it for beverages, smoothies, or a quick refresh. If you are considering summer kitchen upgrade, it’s one of the most affordable and convenient additions you can have. Say goodbye to frantic store runs for ice, or finding melted ice trays from the freezer. Explore stylish and high-performing ice makers that can completely change the way you entertain and stay refreshed during the summer at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, one of the best Los Angeles appliance stores. Why Countertop Ice Makers Are Trending in 2025 How people hydrate and entertain at home is shifting and ice maker trend in 2025is indicative of this change. These small appliances have gained immense popularity. Previously people used ice trays, or bought bags of ice from the store, but modern homeowners value convenience, style, and reliability. A countertop ice maker is perfect as it offers instant ice on demand, which is great for summer gatherings, smoothies, and iced coffee lovers. Social media has sparked new trends that influenced families to buy home bar and coffee stations. Families that follow wellness trends prefer having chilled water and healthy drinks readily available. On the other hand, people who like to entertain appreciate having plenty of ice available

High-end stainless steel appliances look sleek, but they can scratch more easily than you might think. A rough sponge, or a small fumble with a pot, can leave marks that dull the finish of your fridge, oven, or dishwasher. For homeowners who love a polished kitchen, those little scratches can be a big annoyance. The good news is that many of the scratches on stainless steel surfaces are easy to repair at home. With a little time and the right supplies, you can remove the scratches and restore that bright finish without buying a new appliance. For scratches that go a little deeper, there are gentle treatment options to try, and experts who can make it look like new again. In this guide from Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, we show you how to remove scratches from stainless steel, when you can safely do it yourself, and how to repair stainless steel appliances with confidence. Plus, you’ll get luxury appliance care tips for keeping your luxury appliances looking brand new for years to come. What Causes Scratches on Stainless Steel Appliances? Even the most careful cooks can end up with scratches on stainless steel appliances. Here are the everyday actions that can be the stainless steel scratch causes and lead to appliance surface damage: Jewelry, belt buckles, or coat buttons rubbing the surface while moving around the kitchen Abrasive tools, like steel wool or tough sponges, used to scrub stubborn spots Kids’ toys or placing/removing magnets from the refrigerator door

Should I wait for a sale or buy it now? If you’re updating your kitchen or replacing a worn-out appliance, you’ve probably asked yourself this more than once. Understanding the best time to buy appliances can save you cash without sacrificing quality or the latest features. High-end appliances can really make a home shine, but the price tags can make you wince. In 2025, knowing when to buy can help your wallet breathe a little easier. Whether you’re curious about appliance sales in 2025 or just wondering when to buy kitchen appliances, timing your purchase perfectly can unlock savings and a wider selection. In this simple guide from Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, we’ll cover seasonal sales, when new models hit the market, and a few expert tips. Our goal is to help you shop smarter so each dollar goes a little farther. Best Times of Year to Buy Appliances If you’re getting ready to remodel or replace aging appliances, choosing the right time to buy can help you save a lot. Stick to the right appliance sales calendar and you can upgrade to premium models without blowing your budget. End of the Year: October to December The last three months of the year are one of the smartest times to shop for big appliances. Starting in October and running through December, most retailers and manufacturers work to clear existing stock to make space for the newer models arriving in January. If you’ve been wondering when to buy a fridge,

Backyard entertaining has significantly evolved from simple grills and folding chairs. Homeowners are now building entire outdoor kitchens that integrate seamlessly with the home, and even include pizza ovens and wine coolers. One of the latest must-have additions is an outdoor beer dispenser. This is a game-changer for anyone who loves hosting gatherings. No need to run in and out of the house for drinks or to drag a cooler filled with ice, you will be able to pour a fresh cold beer right off the tap in your backyard. Latest outdoor beer dispensers make serving drinks easy and bring a touch of elegance to your home. If you need backyard entertaining ideas, a beer dispenser is a great place to start. This guide will help you plan a brand-new luxury outdoor kitchen in 2025 or upgrade an existing one. It will also help you understand how beer dispensers work, what to look for when buying one, and why Hestan is leading the way in outdoor living. What Is an Outdoor Beer Dispenser? If you are designing a backyard bar or an outdoor kitchen, you may heard a buzz about what a kegerator is. An outdoor beer dispenser, also known as an outdoor kegerator, is a specialized appliance that serves cold beer on tap and can withstand the outdoor environment. In 2025, many people are also wondering how a beer dispenser works. It has a CO₂ system for carbonating the beer, a cooling unit for chilling it, and a tap

If you’ve ever attempted to prepare dinner and dessert simultaneously, or host a holiday feast in which every dish is ready on time, you already know just how difficult it can be with only one oven. That’s a big reason why today, many homeowners are adding a second oven in their kitchen. Double ovens are becoming an increasingly popular feature in modern homes because they save time, eliminate the stress of cooking large meals, and make entertaining easier. But do I need a double oven in my kitchen? It all depends on how much you cook, the size of your kitchen, and your lifestyle. If you love to entertain or enjoy cooking multiple dishes at once, the benefits of the second oven are hard to overlook. From double wall ovens to oven-microwave combinations, you can explore options available in different styles. In this guide, we'll help you understand when you need a second oven and how to choose the best double oven for 2025. What Is a Double Oven? (And What Types Exist?) If you’ve ever wondered what is a double oven, the answer is quite straightforward. It is an appliance which has two separate oven compartments. With double ovens, you can prepare two different dishes simultaneously and heat them at different temperatures allowing for precise cooking. For active families, avid cooks, and those who entertain frequently, double ovens help save time in the kitchen while providing added convenience. Types of Double Ovens Today, there are many styles of double

It’s 2025 and luxury outdoor kitchens are the hottest home trend in Southern California. More homeowners are converting patios and backyards into complete cooking and entertaining spaces. These setups are more than just a BBQ, featuring smart appliances, tailored setups, and custom styling they are now outdoor living kitchens. Outdoor kitchen design 2025 planning can only be as good as the brands you choose to work with, and this is where Hestan, Lynx, and DCS come in. All your outdoor needs are met, with these heavy hitters delivering on elite performance, intelligence and style. Whether you are looking for the best outdoor grills 2025 or creating a complete cooking area with a suite of luxury outdoor kitchen appliances, this guide will continue leading you in the right direction for smart long-term decisions. Why Build a Luxury Outdoor Kitchen? Building a luxury outdoor kitchen is about more than just enjoying the sun, it’s about creating a more comfortable, inviting way to live and entertain. In regions such as Southern California, where the weather is good through most of the year, a thoughtfully built outdoor kitchen is an extension of the home. Here are some of the top outdoor kitchen benefits: Convenient outdoor entertaining: Cook, eat, and entertain within one integrated space without having to run inside from the kitchen to the patio. Multi-season use: Make the most of Southern California weather with an outdoor space that’s usable nearly all year. Boosted home value: A well-designed outdoor kitchen contributes a great deal of value and enjoyment over time to your home. Custom layout options:

For anyone designing or remodeling a luxury kitchen, dishwashers in 2025 have now evolved into a must-have appliance. Nowadays, these appliances do much more than thoroughly clean dishes. They also provide a quiet operation and feature powerful cleaning technology, alongside a sleek, sophisticated design. With so many options, knowing what you’re looking for is paramount. That’s where this dishwasher buying guide 2025 comes in. Whether you're looking for a quiet dishwasher for open floor concepts or a panel-ready dishwasher that works with custom cabinetry, this guide covers the latest features, top-rated appliances, and provides comprehensive dishwasher buying advice. For style and standard matching your needs, Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center in Los Angeles is the go-to source for all dishwashers. How to Measure Dishwasher Quietness (Understanding dBA Levels) While picking a quiet dishwasher for 2025, it is important to consider its dBA rating, as it will help you figure out which model is best suited for your space. Here’s what you need to know: 50 dBA: Average noise level, comparable to light rainfall 44 dBA and under: Quiet operation, appropriate for open-concept kitchens 38 dBA: Ultra-quiet or whisper-quiet, optimal for premium and luxury setups With this dishwasher decibel rating scale, comparing brands becomes easy with confidence. Miele and Bosch have models with dBA ratings as low as 38 which ensures a calm and quiet kitchen environment even when the unit is running. The convenience of a quieter dishwasher is that it can run during family dinners and while entertaining guests.